A popular social media influencer, formerly a burlesque dancer, is facing accusations of using artificial intelligence to fabricate videos and images depicting her charitable work overseas. Lily Jay, 31, who converted to Islam and amassed 3 million followers on Instagram for her posts about faith and philanthropy, allegedly created fake content to promote her "Lily Jay Foundation."
According to an investigation by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s News Verify, Hinson claimed to have opened an orphanage in Uganda and a bakery in Gaza through her foundation. However, the investigation found no verifiable evidence of either establishment's existence.
One AI-generated video promoting the opening of the purported Ugandan orphanage showed African children surrounding Hinson. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation noted discrepancies such as a disappearing foundation sign and distorted children's fingers, indicative of AI manipulation. Another clip, reportedly filmed in Gaza, featured a "Lily Jay Foundation" banner that appeared to be digitally superimposed. The foundation also shared images of Hinson receiving a fabricated "2026 Austral-Global Excellence Award for Humanitarian Leadership," which was created by ChatGPT and does not exist.
Authorities were unable to locate any registration for the orphanage in Uganda, which is legally required. Similarly, reporters could not find the Gazan bakery, geolocate it, or discover any independent proof of its operation. Aid organizations like the Red Crescent have cautioned that unverified humanitarian claims can misdirect vital resources.
The "Lily Jay Foundation" defended its practices in a statement, asserting that AI was used for a "very limited number" of marketing materials as "opening hooks" and not to fabricate aid delivery. The foundation stated that these AI-generated sequences were brief introductions before transitioning to genuine footage of their work. The organization also noted that it operates under a corporate structure for efficiency rather than as a registered charity, though it expressed interest in transitioning to a charity model. The foundation claimed it does not disclose precise GPS coordinates for the safety of its teams in conflict zones, but maintains all projects are genuine and verified for supporters.
Despite her prominent role, Hinson is not listed in the foundation's corporate records. Instead, the filings name Christine Hinson, James Bracher, and Sayed Mohsin as directors. Investigations also revealed that Hinson's personal Instagram account is managed from Cyprus, while the foundation's account operates from Kosovo, according to the ABC report. Hinson previously performed as a burlesque dancer before her conversion to Islam and pivot to philanthropy.